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Wednesday, December 2, 2015

10 Fun and Creative Winter Date Ideas

Winter has officially arrived in Utah this week with a couple of snow storms, which means it is way too cold for this Arizona girl! Sometimes the cold can put a freeze on creative date nights. It's just way too cold to do certain things, so Netflix marathons or movie nights can become the go-to date. But winter doesn't need to bring along the end of fun, creative date nights. Here are a list of 10 of my favorite winter time date night ideas--most will let you stay cozy and warm, but a couple will require braving the elements. Don't worry... they are so fun it's worth it.

1. Host A Hot Chocolate Bar
Invite some friends over for a fun, cozy night with delicious drinks to warm the soul. Hot chocolate bars are so much fun and pretty easy to put together. I'm a personal fan of Stephens hot chocolate and they have so many great flavors. Provide hot water or milk, a few types of chocolate mix, and some fun add ins. Some of my favorites are candy canes, heath bars, thin mints, mini marshmallows, and whipped cream. Seriously, the sky is the limit. Check Pinterest for more fun ideas!

2. Make A Fort And Cozy Up By The Fireplace
A person is never too old to build a fort! And what a romantic date night to cuddle together in front of the fireplace. If you don't have a fireplace, never fear. Virtual Fireplace has you covered.

3. Sing Christmas Carols
Brad and I love to sit at the piano together and sing our favorite carols. If you want to brave the cold, you can even get a group together and spread the cheer with some neighborhood caroling.

4. Go Ice Skating
I love to go ice skating in the winter. I've never been to an outdoor rink, but I hear they are magical. We have a plan to make that happen this year. Check out information in your area to find an outdoor rink.

5. Volunteer
It's great to volunteer together any time of the year, but I think this is especially important in the winter time. There are so many great opportunities to give back: check your local food bank, churches, homeless shelters, Salvation Army's angel trees, etc. I always feel better when I give back around the holidays.

6. Read Christmas Stories
I love to read uplifting Christmas stories, and doing it as a couple has really brought some magic into the season. I have a book of stories that my mom compiled over the years, but a quick google search will do just as well. Read some of my favorites: Christmas Day In The Morning.A Brother Like That.The Gift of the Magi

7. Decorate Cookies
You can get as fancy or as simple as you like on this one, but it is fun no matter what. Sugar cookies aren't my very favorite to eat, but there is something so special about decorating them when it is cold outside.

8. Go See The Christmas Lights
If you are up for it, you can walk the neighborhood to get a good look at them. If not, a car ride is also good if you are wanting to stay nice and warm. If you are in Salt Lake City or St George Utah, Mesa Arizona, Oakland, San Diego, or Los Angeles California, or Washington D.C., I highly recommend the light displays at the LDS Temples. They are stunning.

9. Build A Snowman
Somehow, we have lived in Utah for 3 years now and not built a snowman. It is definitely happening this year. It's a really fun date and something that everyone needs to do at least once in their life.

10. Make Gingerbread Houses
I've seen some super creative gingerbread houses in my days. Whether you are working with real gingerbread or just plain ol graham crackers, this is a super fun winter date night. It's always fun to make something together, and who can say no to sneaking a few gum drops. Build one house together or, for the competitive couples, see who can make the best design. Either way, this date night is sure to please.

So there you have it. 10 winter date nights that are more than just a movie. Don't get me wrong, Brad and I will definitely be watching The Santa Clause and Elf this year, but it's always good to mix things up with something a little more creative. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and may your date nights be merry and bright!

I love these ideas! I might steal the hot cocoa bar idea for my birthday party. :-) Thanks for these! Also, I'm going to follow you on Insta! I was born and raised in Utah till we moved to AZ when I was 11. So I hear you on the cold probs especially cause we are in Germany now. Brrrrr......

So many great ideas! In our home state, there are Botanical Gardens that decorate for the holidays and it's so much fun to see! You can walk around with some hot chocolate and see all the beautiful lights. It's absolutely gorgeous when it's snowing or after it's snowed!

I'm so glad you'll be able to have some fun dates! My first couple of winters here I really hated the snow, but I have come to appreciate a few things about it. But I don't think I'll miss it all that much! haha.